In this special series of Darlington Connects blogs, we are excited to share the inspiring stories and impactful work of those in our Darlington Community who embody Darlington’s mission of "Service Beyond Self." Today, we hear from Mark Rogers (’94, LD ’12), class agent and Alumni Council member, Leadership Darlington graduate, and parent of two Darlington students.
Mark Rogers (’94, LD ’12) exemplifies Darlington’s mission of “Service Beyond Self” through his dedication to military service and meaningful volunteer work, especially within the Darlington Community.
Mark came to Darlington as a sixth-grader. In his six years as a day student, he was involved in a wide range of activities, from playing on the soccer team and contributing to the Jabberwokk yearbook staff to participating in the school band. Darlington instilled in him a deep sense of duty, setting him on a path marked by commitment and leadership.
“Service Beyond Self provides an outward focus on helping those in need, cultivating community, and protecting our ideals from corruption," he said. "This is the framework in which I reflect upon my military service, my commitment to the rule of law, and my efforts to build community.”
After graduating from Darlington, Mark attended the University of Virginia, where he chose a path of military service. Through UVA’s ROTC program, he completed airborne and air assault training, ultimately commissioning as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1998. During his four years as an armor officer, he served in Korea and finished his military career at Fort Knox.
After his military service, Mark attended Emory University School of Law and began a career in litigation. Over the years, he has gained substantial experience in private practice and in-house counsel roles. Today, he serves as the deputy general counsel for Mohawk Industries.
Mark has remained committed to serving the Darlington Community throughout the years. As an alumnus, he has supported Darlington in various capacities, including speaking at Career Day and the Veterans Day Chapel Service, and participating in Leadership Darlington. Currently, he is serving his third year on the Alumni Council and his first year as a class agent, including planning and hosting his 30th reunion at his home.
Mark and his wife, Emily, continue his Darlington legacy through their daughters, Lucy (’32) and Kate (’35), current students at Darlington. Mark’s dedication to service extends beyond Darlington and into the Rome community, where he has been actively involved with organizations such as Harbor House, the Rome International Film Festival (RIFF), Floyd Felines, and Leadership Rome.
Mark’s Darlington story is one of legacy and service to the Darlington Community.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from our Darlington Connects series, where we celebrate those who embody Darlington’s mission of "Service Beyond Self."
